Psychiatrists have raised concern that social media is increasingly driving young people toward violent behavior, creating a dangerous culture of aggression in today’s society.
Specialist Psychiatrist Dr. Rumi Ruben of the Karapitiya National Hospital stated that individuals vulnerable to such violent tendencies must be identified at an early stage, with steps taken to guide them in the right direction through proper rehabilitation.
“Violence is now being used as a way of solving problems in society,” Dr. Ruben explained. “Social media plays a major role in spreading hatred and violence. It has been used ideologically for years, and today’s youth have become victims of this influence, often behaving violently in their daily lives.”
He further warned that young people exposed to such environments risk joining underworld gangs, engaging in drug abuse, or even becoming part of armed groups. Many also develop serious anger management issues, making them more susceptible to criminal activity.
“Once they are drawn into these subcultures, it becomes very difficult for them to break free,” he said. “That is why it is critically important to bring members of underworld gangs to justice while also providing pathways for rehabilitation.”
According to Dr. Ruben, the key to reducing this growing problem is early identification. By recognizing individuals at risk of being influenced by violent online content and criminal networks, authorities and families can intervene before they are lost to the cycle of crime.
